In our family, traveling isn’t complete without stopping at local flea markets. Our daughter is studying in Spain this year, so we decided to visit her—and do some shopping.

            We headed straight for El Rastro in Madrid, Europe’s largest flea market. It’s held every Sunday and true to its billing, the market is gigantic. Its main street is Ribera de Curtidores, which is lined with many permanent antique shops. On market day the street itself is filled with dealers selling mainly newer items, but the narrower winding streets surrounding it are lined with stores and outdoor stands offering antiques and older collectibles. Some sellers even display their wares right on the ground.

            We spotted more clocks, typewriters, cameras and electric fans than you would find at a typical U.S. flea market, and we found a lot more old and decorative pieces than we expected.

            We weren’t surprised to find that prices were lower on the streets than in the stores. And we were reminded that “Buyer Beware” is a warning that applies around the world—dealers were selling a lot of reproductions, including signs, bicycles, enamelware, metal pails and dress forms.

            A few of the repros and vintage collectibles we came across at the market are pictured (all prices are converted to U.S. dollars). We also spotted:

  • 8-inch silver mesh purse, $245 on the street but $270 in a store
  • 4-inch silver mesh purse, $68
  • Wire birdcages (reproduction), $47-$65
  • Bertoia chair, average condition, $155

Tip: If you’re looking for interesting modern or architectural design stores in Spain, Architectural Digest España (Spain) prints an annual supplement, Guía AD, that lists their experts’ picks. If you can’t locate a copy of the supplement, stores selected by the magazine usually post a window sign advertising their listing. You can also download the free app (Guía AD 2013) from the iTunes store.